"Deeply Upsetting" Number Of People Presented For Self-Harm In Dublin Northeast Hospitals

It has been revealed that almost 11,500 people attended hospital for self-harm over a four period in the Dublin northeast area, The Irish Times reports.

Figures released to Independent TD Tommy Broughan by the HSE showed that 2,991 people attended hospital emergency departments in 2012 for self-harming in seven hospitals in the region.

2,709 people presented in 2013, 2,878 in 2014, and 2,916 in 2015 - a steady and concerning increase.

Mr Broughan told the Irish Times that it was shocking and "deeply upsetting" that such a large number of people have needed to seek help for self-harm in the space of four years in just one Dublin region.

“We must ensure that support and resources are available to the tens of thousands of people experiencing mental health difficulties and times of despair before they reach a stage of inflicting physical pain upon themselves”, he said.

“These figures sadden me greatly and I welcome the Connecting for Life strategy to reduce suicide and self-harm rates.”

The figures also shows that of the total number of 11, 494 people, 2,070 left the hospital without being seen, with the majority - 6,618 not admitted.

Connecting for Life was launched in Ireland in 2015 and aims to reduce suicide by 10% by 2020.

Mr Broughan also noted that of 4,869 people discharged from the emergency department, 23.2% (1,131) were sent home with no follow-up.

If you've been affected by any issues in this piece relating to suicidal feelings or self-harm you can contact The Samaritans free helpline at 116 123.